Emera Maine and Central Maine Power - Maine's two largest utilities - have agreed to jointly develop electric transmission projects to enhance the strength and capacity of the state's bulk power grid and improve access for new generation resources, such as wind power.

According to a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), the projects would improve transmission links between southern New England and northern Maine, where more than 2.1 GW of wind development has been proposed.

Per the MOU, the companies have outlined two initial phases of work. Phase one will analyze the feasibility of each project, including technical feasibility, public policy, regulatory considerations and outreach to other potential parties to the project. The second phase will include all development activities from design, engineering, siting and construction bidding.

According to the utilities, the agreement is a response to a call by the six New England governors for investments in the region's energy infrastructure to diversify the energy portfolio and gain access to new renewable energy resources.